Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you need to factory reset your iPhone 12 but don’t have the password or a computer? It can be frustrating and stressful, especially if you have important data on your device that you don’t want to lose. But fear not, because in this blog post, we will guide you through different methods to factory reset your iPhone 12 without the need for a password or a computer. Whether you want to sell your device, fix a software issue, or simply start fresh, these methods will help you achieve your goal.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To factory reset your iPhone 12 without a password or computer, you will need the iPhone itself and an active internet connection. It’s important to note that a factory reset will erase all data on your device, so make sure you have a backup of any important files or information before proceeding.
What Requires Your Focus?
Before diving into the methods, it’s essential to understand that a factory reset will wipe everything from your iPhone 12, including apps, settings, and personal data. Therefore, it’s crucial to back up any important files or information to avoid permanent loss. Additionally, make sure your iPhone 12 is charged or connected to a power source throughout the process to prevent any disruptions.
Method 1: Via Settings
Resetting your iPhone 12 through the Settings app is the most straightforward method, but it requires you to know your device passcode. If you’ve forgotten your iPhone passcode, you can skip to Method 2 or Method 3. Here are the steps to factory reset your iPhone 12 via Settings:
1. Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone 12.
2. Scroll down and tap on "General."
3. In the General settings, scroll down again and tap on "Reset."
4. Tap on "Erase All Content and Settings."
5. Enter your device passcode when prompted.
6. A warning message will appear, informing you that all data will be erased. Tap on "Erase Now" to confirm.
7. Your iPhone 12 will begin the factory reset process, which may take a few minutes. Wait for the process to complete, and your device will restart.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and straightforward process. | 1. Requires knowledge of the device passcode. |
| 2. No need for a computer. | 2. Erases all data without the ability to selectively choose what to delete. |
Method 2: Using Find My iPhone
If you’re unable to access the Settings app on your iPhone 12 due to a forgotten passcode, you can use the Find My iPhone feature to remotely erase your device. Here’s how:
1. Open a web browser on a computer or another device.
2. Visit the iCloud website (www.icloud.com) and sign in with your Apple ID and password.
3. Once logged in, click on the "Find iPhone" icon.
4. On the Find My iPhone page, click on the "All Devices" dropdown menu at the top center and select your iPhone 12.
5. You will see the location of your iPhone 12 on a map. Click on the "Erase iPhone" option.
6. A confirmation pop-up will appear. Click on "Erase" to proceed.
7. The remote erase command will be sent to your iPhone 12, and it will begin the factory reset process automatically once connected to the internet.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Can be done remotely from any device with internet access. | 1. Requires Find My iPhone to be enabled on the iPhone 12. |
| 2. No need for a computer. | 2. Erases all data without the ability to selectively choose what to delete. |
Method 3: Using Siri
If you’re unable to access the Settings app and Find My iPhone feature, you can try using Siri to factory reset your iPhone 12. This method takes advantage of a security vulnerability present in certain iOS versions. Follow these steps:
1. Activate Siri by pressing and holding the Side button or saying "Hey Siri."
2. Ask Siri what time it is. This step is essential to trigger the next step correctly.
3. When Siri displays the time, tap on it. This will launch the Clock app.
4. In the Clock app, tap on the "+" button to set a new alarm.
5. In the alarm creation interface, tap on "Choose a song."
6. In the song selection screen, tap on "Store" to access the iTunes Store.
7. The iTunes Store app will open. Press the Home button to exit the Clock app, and you will have access to the device’s home screen.
8. From the home screen, go to "Settings," then "General," and finally, "Reset."
9. Tap on "Erase All Content and Settings" and confirm when prompted.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Doesn’t require knowledge of the device passcode. | 1. Relies on a security vulnerability that may be patched in future iOS updates. |
| 2. No need for a computer. | 2. Erases all data without the ability to selectively choose what to delete. |
Method 4: Via Recovery Mode
If the previous methods didn’t work or you prefer a more reliable option, you can use the Recovery Mode to factory reset your iPhone 12. This method will require a computer running the latest version of iTunes or Finder. Here’s how to do it:
1. Connect your iPhone 12 to the computer using a Lightning to USB cable.
2. Open iTunes or Finder on your computer.
3. On your iPhone 12, perform a force restart:
– For iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Then, press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
– For iPhone 12 Pro Max: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Then, press and hold the Side button and keep holding until you see the recovery mode screen.
4. A message will appear on your computer screen, asking you to either "Update" or "Restore" your iPhone. Choose the "Restore" option.
5. iTunes or Finder will download the latest iOS firmware for your iPhone 12, and the restoration process will begin automatically.
6. Wait for the process to complete, and your iPhone 12 will restart as a brand new device.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides a reliable method to reset your iPhone 12. | 1. Requires a computer with iTunes or Finder. |
| 2. Erases all data without the need for a passcode. | 2. May take longer to complete compared to other methods. |
Why Can’t I Factory Reset My iPhone 12?
There could be several reasons why you’re unable to factory reset your iPhone 12. Here are a few common issues and their possible fixes:
1. Issue: Forgotten Passcode
Fix: Try using Method 2 or Method 3 mentioned above to factory reset your iPhone 12 without the passcode.
2. Issue: Disabled iPhone
Fix: If you enter the wrong passcode multiple times, your iPhone may become disabled. In this case, use Method 4 to reset your device via Recovery Mode.
3. Issue: Activation Lock
Fix: If your iPhone 12 has Activation Lock enabled, you will need to provide the Apple ID and password that were used to set up the device. Contact Apple Support for assistance if you don’t have access to this information.
Implications and Recommendations
When performing a factory reset on your iPhone 12, it’s essential to consider the following implications and recommendations:
1. Permanent Data Loss: A factory reset will erase all data on your iPhone 12, including photos, videos, contacts, messages, and apps. Make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.
2. iCloud Backup: If you have previously enabled iCloud backup, you can restore your data after the factory reset by logging in with your Apple ID during the device setup process.
3. Sell or Donate: If you’re planning to sell or donate your iPhone 12, a factory reset ensures that your personal information is removed from the device. However, it’s advisable to remove the device from your Apple ID account to prevent any issues with Activation Lock.
5 FAQs about Factory Resetting iPhone 12
Q1: Will a factory reset remove the iOS version on my iPhone 12?
A1:
Yes, a factory reset will remove the iOS version installed on your iPhone 12. After the reset, your device will be restored to its original settings, including the iOS version available at the time of the factory reset.
Q2: Should I turn off Find My iPhone before performing a factory reset?
A2:
It’s not necessary to turn off Find My iPhone before performing a factory reset, as the reset process will automatically disable this feature. However, if you want to avoid any complications, you can turn it off manually in the Settings app before initiating the reset.
Q3: Can I cancel a factory reset once it has started?
A3:
No, once a factory reset has started on your iPhone 12, it cannot be canceled. The process will continue until completion, and all data on your device will be erased. That’s why it’s crucial to back up your data before initiating a factory reset.
Q4: Will a factory reset remove any carrier locks on my iPhone 12?
A4:
No, a factory reset will not remove carrier locks on your iPhone 12. Carrier locks are related to the device’s compatibility with different cellular networks and are separate from the device’s software and settings. You need to contact your carrier to discuss unlocking options.
Q5: Can I use these methods to reset other iPhone models?
A5:
These methods specifically apply to the iPhone 12. While some methods may work on other iPhone models, it’s recommended to check for specific instructions for your device to ensure successful factory reset.
Final Words
Factory resetting your iPhone 12 without a password or computer may seem like a daunting task, but with the right methods, it can be accomplished easily. Whether you’re locked out of your device or planning to sell it, the methods mentioned in this blog post will help you reset your iPhone 12 and start fresh. Remember to back up your data, consider the implications, and follow the recommended suggestions to ensure a smooth reset process.